| Title | Preparing for the first Basement Eavor-Loop to be drilled in Germany |
|---|---|
| Authors | H. Falk, C.Narfason, D. Ellison, J. Arias, L. Weydt |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | Energy providers in Germany count on Eavor-Loops for energy independence, to decarbonize their heat networks and/or replace their fossil fueled power plants. After the anticipated successful "first power" delivery by an Eavor-Loop 1.0 in Geretsried, Eavor is progressing to install closed loop technology targeting the basement for commercial projects. In collaboration with a local municipal heat-network operator Eavor went through the process of planning for the realization of a near vertical Eavor-Loop in basement. Geoscience plays a vital role and hence derisking any of the potential geoscience hazards and uncertainties is subject of a lengthy process of data collection, acquisition and evaluation. Financed by the client and supported by available state funding, a 2D seismic survey covering the anticipated drill site and rural areas was acquired to better image and model the subsurface and an extensive rock parameter study was conducted on behalf of Eavor in collaboration with academia. The main focus of the 2D seismic together with the respective geomechanical rock properties and overall stress field is to de-risk the actual drilling and optimize the Eavor-Loop Layout. Rock properties are also the basis for a better definition of thermal parameters to model the heat output. Together with an ideal Eavor-Loop Layout the overall heat delivery can be optimized to match the requirements of the heat network. |